Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that affects approximately 13% of Portuguese population and is associated with a high cardiovascular mortality by coronary artery disease and cerebrovascular disease and with a serious decline on well-being. Lifestyle changes are widely recommended to the control of type 2 diabetes and its complications. This study aims to analyse the effects of different community-based lifestyle programs (exercise or exercise plus dietary intervention) on health and well-being in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients with diagnosed type 2 diabetes at least for six months;
2. Both genders;
3. Aged between 50 and 80 years old;
4. Non-smokers;
5. Not engaged in supervised exercise;
6. Community-dwelling;
7. Medical recommendation for lifestyle intervention;
8. Known medical history;
9. Diabetes complications under medical control (poor metabolic control, diabetic foot, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy and diabetic autonomic neuropathy;
10. No cardiovascular, respiratory and musculoskeletal contraindications to exercise;
11. No gait and balance problems;
12. Not taking insulin or sulfonylureas for less than three months;
13. Volunteer participation with signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Participation in another supervised exercise program during the study;
2. Participation in another supervised dietary intervention during the study;
3. Aggravation of a diabetes complication or another major health problem;